Although Lancer Evolution is built on generations of cutting-edge technology and high-performance testing, Mitsubishi has never forgotten what driving is supposed to be: fun. The sporty Twin Clutch SST makes acceleration swift and smooth, and the paddle shifters bring the excitement right to your fingertips.

Modifications to the engine included an increase in turbo boost pressure, reduced exhaust back-pressure, and increased valve lift. Further improvements to the spoiler placement and electronically controlled active 4WD systems, made the Evolution II more stable at high speed. The result was second place in the 1994 Asia-Pacific Rally Manufacturers’ Championships and Drivers’ Championships.

The Evolution III boasted further power improvement. A bigger front exhaust pipe and lower pressure losses in the main muffler were implemented. Combined with a new turbocharger compressor and higher compression ratio – it was now pumping out nearly 203kW at 6,250rpm, while torque remained at 315Nm at 3,000rpm. Even with this increased power, the Evolution III had greatly increased down force, with no increase in drag. The result was an undeniable 5 Rally wins in 1995 and 7 in 1996.

At a rate of one new model a year, the Lancer Evolution was progressing rapidly. Following the studying of the recently introduced CE Lancer, the Evolution IV engine also underwent extensive modifications. This included high-speed cam profile, lighter pistons and the addition of a sequential gearbox. These changes didn’t just affect the look and performance of the car, but also rally results. The Evolution IV took Tommy Makinen to a second WRC Drivers’ Champion title.

Evolution V was going to give Mitsubishi its best rally year to date. Evolution V utilised a much wider track, aluminium front fenders and rear over-fenders. The use of turbocharged nozzles with larger surface areas increased torque to 373Nm at 3,000rpm. Based simply on production models but with motorsport technology, the Evolution V had to compete with heavily modified World Rally cars – yet still cleaned up with 7 wins in the 13 WRC rounds held. Makinen won his third consecutive WRC title, with a win in the Manufacturers’ Championship making it a double triumph.

With a lighter engine, the Evolution VI was not only very strong technologically, but a twin-scroll turbocharger also enabled it to handle the heat better. The enhanced 4WD system increased response speed, and the improved active rear differential AVC increased cornering stability. The result? Third place in the 1999 WRC Manufacturers’ Championship and Makinen’s fourth Drivers’ Championship title. An extremely successful year – once again.

Evolution VII was a new, larger car that used the same body shape as the CG Lancer. This styling gave superior aerodynamics, as well as engine and brake cooling performance. The mid range torque was boosted to a class topping 383Nm at 3,500rpm, while power remained at 206kW at 5,000rpm. With such power, strength and performance, the Evolution VII truly became the rally car to be reckoned with. More importantly a sign of things to come with the launch of the Evolution VIII.

Launched in January 2003, the Evolution VIII saw a dramatic boost in torque, increasing to a blistering 398Nm. This also included the introduction of Super Active Yaw Control (S-AYC), which doubled the torque transfer between the rear wheels, giving the Evolution VIII even better handling.

The advanced technology, components and lightweight materials refined since previous models made huge changes to the capabilities of the Evolution. The addition of MIVEC Variable Valve-timing technology and an improved turbocharger design resulted in faster and smoother dynamic performance. New front and rear bumpers, aerodynamics and cooling further improved the Evolution IX. Combined with Mitsubishi’s Active Centre Differential (ACD), Super Active Yaw Control (S-AYC) and ABS all-wheel control technology, handling and performance remained at their peak no matter what the driving conditions. Created in the same vein as the WRC car, the Evolution IX gave you power output, durability and performance – without compromise.

The latest Lancer Evolution is the result of continuous effort from Mitsubishi engineers to establish a solid technological base. Evolution is not a short-term dream to create a fast car, but a vision to continuously upgrade and improve from generation to generation.